Stubbings trio foils youngsters of ‘Dales

Fylingdales’ second string entertained high-flying Ayton last Sunday, with the pitch in tip-top condition.

Dave Smith was nearly on the scoresheet in the third minute after a good chase onto a long ball and clean through on goal, the pacey striker was harshly ruled offside.

Josh Hopley hit the bar soon after and Ben Thompson fired just wide but Ayton had a few chances of their own and from one, Hopley was judged to have handled the ball in the area. Stubbings scored the penalty and the visitors were soon 2-0 up when the Dales keeper Daniel Smith was caught in no man’s land and striker Tyson Stubbings chipped him.

Sixteen-year-old right and left backs Tom Shrimpton and Dom Morgan were having magnificent games and wingers Harry Purves and Craig Devonport were working hard on the wings, but it was not till early on in the second half that Dales got on the scoresheet when Thompson was brought down in the box and Sam Bailey stepped up to coolly slot the penalty away.

Ayton came straight back when Stubbings was again on the score card with a stunning shot from outside the area to make it 3-1.

However, the Reserves were not done yet and launched several attacks.

Taylor Humble went on a mazy run, beating three defenders and fired in an inch perfect cross to Ben Thompson – the in form striker scored in the bottom right hand corner.

With Dales now in full flow, they pressed forward for the equaliser but were caught out with a long ball over the top for the visitors to seal the victory with a well-taken goal. Dales nearly got a consolation goal in the last minute when Steve Stones put a great cross into the box but Bailey’s acrobatic diving header was saved.

Man of the match: Harry Purves. This Sunday, the Reserves have a friendly at home to Scarbrough Spa, kick-off tbc. All squad welcome. Thank you to Heather Weston for after-match food and drinks.